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Ferrum Wandla GoldenSound Edition Gen 2
Ferrum has introduced the Wandla GoldenSound Edition Gen 2, an updated version of its DAC and preamplifier platform developed in collaboration with GoldenSound. Building on the EISA award-winning Wandla architecture and the earlier GoldenSound Edition variant, the new model focuses on expanded user control over tonal balance, spatial presentation and harmonic character through redesigned versions of three key processing tools - Impact+, Tube Mode and Spatial Enhancement - all refined using Ferrum's Sweet Spot Tuning approach.
Rather than changing the core conversion platform itself, the GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 concentrates on extending the system's flexibility as a digital control centre for both headphone and loudspeaker setups. The aim is to allow users to tailor the presentation more precisely to their system, recordings and personal preferences while preserving the transparency and resolution associated with the original Wandla design.
The most extensive changes affect Impact+, Ferrum's low-frequency enhancement system. Previously implemented as a fixed bass-shelf structure supported by an additional peak filter, the updated version introduces seven selectable profiles - Reference, Ref+, Smooth, Kick+, DD-Comp, DD-Comp+ and Sub-Bass - each combining a different approach to bass shaping and dynamic response. Users can then adjust the overall effect continuously from 10% to 130%, allowing subtle reinforcement or more pronounced low-end emphasis depending on the partnering headphones or speakers. All processing is performed internally with 64-bit precision.
Tube Mode has also been reworked. Instead of introducing a generalised second-harmonic component, the new implementation models the tonal characteristics of specific valve types, including EL34, KT88, 300B, 2A3 and 7062. The intensity of the effect can be adjusted from 10% to 200%, making it possible to move from a gentle hint of valve-style warmth to a more explicit analogue-inspired presentation without introducing external tube stages into the signal path.
Spatial Enhancement has likewise been expanded. In addition to the existing loudspeaker and headphone optimisation modes, the GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 introduces Transient Compensation, or T-Comp, designed to improve the handling of high-frequency transients within the spatial processing algorithm. According to the manufacturer, this results in clearer depth perception and more stable three-dimensional imaging compared with conventional crossfeed-type solutions. Users can independently enable spatial processing, select the appropriate output mode and activate T-Comp as required.
Alongside these additions, the device retains the core elements of the Wandla platform, including the Serce DSP module, balanced signal architecture, proprietary amplification stage, Dynamic Digital Filtering system and a touchscreen-based control interface. Integration with modern digital systems is supported through Ferrum Streaming Control Technology, while pairing the unit with the Ferrum Hypsos external power supply enables 4TSD voltage-sensing optimisation.
Existing owners of the original Wandla GoldenSound Edition, as well as users who previously purchased the GoldenSound Edition Converting Plugin, will be able to upgrade their devices to the Gen 2 specification via a free firmware update. Ferrum has also announced that a GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 Converting Plugin will become available to all Wandla users shortly after launch at a price of $595/€595. The Wandla GoldenSound Edition Gen 2 is priced at $3,295/€3,295/£3,295 and is available through Ferrum's international dealer network in Europe, North America, Asia, and selected markets in the Middle East and Oceania. Info and photos by Ferrum.
